Roasted Chicken
The aroma of Roasted Chicken wafting through the air can instantly transport you to a cozy family gathering or a warm, inviting kitchen. I still remember the first time I attempted this dish; it was during a chilly fall evening. I wanted to impress my friends for dinner, and the idea of a beautifully roasted chicken with crispy skin and tender meat filled me with excitement. It was a simple recipe, yet it had the power to bring everyone together around the table.
As the chicken roasted in the oven, I found myself peeking every few minutes, eagerly awaiting that golden-brown color that would signal it was ready. The side of small red potatoes, tossed in olive oil and seasoned to perfection, turned out to be the perfect companion. There’s something magical about how a single dish can evoke such warmth and fond memories. Every bite of the Roasted Chicken was not just about the meal; it was about the laughter, stories, and the comfort of good food shared with loved ones. Today, I want to share this beloved recipe with you, so you can create your own memories around the dinner table.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
0 mins
0 mins
Medium
450 kcal
40 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
20 g
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan
What Makes This Roasted Chicken Special
It’s Comfort Food at Its Best
There’s something inherently comforting about a well-cooked Roasted Chicken. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The crispy skin, the juicy meat, and the aromatic herbs create a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration. It’s impressive enough to serve to guests while still being simple to prepare. You’ll feel like a culinary superstar without spending all day in the kitchen.
One-Pan Wonder
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. With just one roasting pan, you can prepare the chicken and potatoes simultaneously. This means less cleanup for you and more time to enjoy your meal with family and friends.
Flavor-Infused Goodness
Using fresh herbs like rosemary elevates the flavors of the Roasted Chicken without requiring expert culinary skills. The combination of herbs and seasonings seeps into the chicken, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Perfectly Cooked Every Time
This method ensures that the chicken is cooked evenly, retaining its juices while achieving that crispy skin we all crave. The potatoes are roasted to perfection underneath, soaking up the delicious drippings, making them a flavorful side that you won’t want to miss.
A Dish for Everyone
Whether you’re cooking for a family, friends, or just for yourself, this Roasted Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser. It’s an opportunity to bring people together, share stories, and create lasting memories over a delicious meal.
Roasted Chicken Ingredients
The ingredients in this Roasted Chicken recipe come together beautifully, each playing a vital role in creating a well-rounded dish. The star of the show is, of course, the whole chicken, which becomes tender and flavorful as it roasts alongside small red potatoes. The olive oil adds richness, while kosher salt enhances all the flavors. Fresh rosemary adds aromatic notes, and black pepper gives just the right amount of warmth.
- 2 lbs small red potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for roasting, becoming crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to achieve a beautiful golden color and adds flavor to both the chicken and the potatoes.
- 4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided use: Salt is essential for flavoring the chicken and enhancing the natural taste of the potatoes.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and flavor to the roasting pan, creating a delicious base for basting.
- 4 lb. whole chicken, patted dry: The star ingredient, it becomes juicy and tender when properly roasted.
- 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds an aromatic touch that complements the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: This adds a subtle kick to the overall flavor.
Cooking Method for Roasted Chicken
Cooking a Roasted Chicken is easier than you might think! With just a few simple steps, you will have a stunning, delicious dish ready to serve. Follow along as we walk through the steps to achieve that perfect roast. Each step is designed to ensure that your chicken is juicy and flavorful, while your potatoes roast to crispy perfection.
- In a roasting pan, toss together the small red potatoes and olive oil. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of kosher salt on top, ensuring that the potatoes are well-seasoned. Spread them out to create one even layer in the pan. Pour in the chicken broth around the potatoes. This will help keep everything moist during the roasting process. Set the pan aside as you prepare the chicken.
- In a small bowl, mix together the rosemary, the remaining two teaspoons of kosher salt, and black pepper. This seasoning blend is what will make your chicken taste amazing. Take the whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels — this is essential for crispy skin. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it into the cavity and under the skin if possible. Don’t be shy; this seasoning is what gives the chicken its flavor.
- Next, tie the legs together with kitchen twine. This helps the chicken cook evenly and retain its shape while roasting. Now, it’s time to heat your oven. Preheat it to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature will help achieve that lovely, crispy skin.
- Once the oven is ready, place the seasoned chicken breast-side up directly on the oven rack, with the roasting pan of potatoes directly underneath. This setup allows the air to circulate all around the chicken, helping it cook evenly. Roast the chicken for about 50 minutes.
- After 50 minutes, it’s time to baste the chicken. Carefully open the oven and use a spoon to drizzle some of the pan juices over the chicken. This will keep it moist and flavorful. Put the chicken back in the oven and roast for an additional 10 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear when pierced with a knife.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it stand for about 10 minutes. This resting time is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is tender and juicy.
- After resting, carve the chicken and serve it alongside the roasted potatoes. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of creating a beautiful Roasted Chicken dinner!
Things Worth Knowing
- Resting is Key: Always let the chicken rest after roasting. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier chicken.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary add depth of flavor. Don’t substitute with dried if you can help it.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure the potatoes aren’t overcrowded in the pan, as this can prevent them from getting crispy.
Variations to Try
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of variations to try with this Roasted Chicken recipe. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Add Citrus: Stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon or orange slices for a burst of flavor.
- Different Veggies: Try adding carrots, onions, or Brussels sprouts to the roasting pan for more variety and flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or sage for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftover chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly.
- Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or bread to complete your meal and soak up those delicious juices.
What to Serve Alongside Roasted Chicken
When it comes to serving Roasted Chicken, there are numerous delicious options to consider that will complement the savory flavors of the dish beautifully. Here are some suggestions to create a complete meal:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Consider serving seasonal roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a colorful plate.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting twist, creamy mashed potatoes can pair wonderfully with the chicken.
- Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is always a hit and perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can be a great alternative that balances the meal and adds texture.
- Seasonal Dishes: During the fall, consider serving with apple sauce or cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for Sunday family dinners, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy weeknight meal.
- Leftover Ideas: Use leftover chicken in salads, sandwiches, or wraps the next day for a quick meal.
FAQ
Conclusion
This Roasted Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a way to gather loved ones and make memories around the table. Its crispy skin and tender meat are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share in it. I encourage you to try it for your next dinner; you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can bring so much joy. Happy cooking!
Roasted Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a roasting pan, toss together the small red potatoes and olive oil. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of kosher salt on top, ensuring that the potatoes are well-seasoned. Spread them out to create one even layer in the pan. Pour in the chicken broth around the potatoes. This will help keep everything moist during the roasting process. Set the pan aside as you prepare the chicken.
- In a small bowl, mix together the rosemary, the remaining two teaspoons of kosher salt, and black pepper. This seasoning blend is what will make your chicken taste amazing. Take the whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels — this is essential for crispy skin. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it into the cavity and under the skin if possible. Don’t be shy; this seasoning is what gives the chicken its flavor.
- Next, tie the legs together with kitchen twine. This helps the chicken cook evenly and retain its shape while roasting. Now, it’s time to heat your oven. Preheat it to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature will help achieve that lovely, crispy skin.
- Once the oven is ready, place the seasoned chicken breast-side up directly on the oven rack, with the roasting pan of potatoes directly underneath. This setup allows the air to circulate all around the chicken, helping it cook evenly. Roast the chicken for about 50 minutes.
- After 50 minutes, it's time to baste the chicken. Carefully open the oven and use a spoon to drizzle some of the pan juices over the chicken. This will keep it moist and flavorful. Put the chicken back in the oven and roast for an additional 10 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear when pierced with a knife.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it stand for about 10 minutes. This resting time is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is tender and juicy.
- After resting, carve the chicken and serve it alongside the roasted potatoes. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of creating a beautiful Roasted Chicken dinner!
Notes
- Resting is Key: Always let the chicken rest after roasting. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier chicken.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary add depth of flavor. Don’t substitute with dried if you can help it.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure the potatoes aren’t overcrowded in the pan, as this can prevent them from getting crispy.
